Role of Three-Dimensional Guides in Management of Forearm and Wrist Malunions.

Hand Clin · Feb 2024 · Review

Buijze GA, Verstreken A, Verstreken F

Orthopedic Department, Antwerp University Hospital, Drie Eikenstraat 655, Belgium

Hand & Upper Extremity

SUMMARY — THE REDUCTION3-D planning and patient-specific guides improve accuracy of complex forearm and wrist malunion correction with decreasing costs and accessibility.
Abstract, as published

Although its precise added value and cost-effectiveness need to be determined, three-dimensional (3D) planning and intraoperative guidance facilitate restoration of normal anatomy. The use of 3D computer planning and patient-specific intraoperative guides leads to more accurate and reproducible correction of forearm and wrist malunion. Its value augments with increasing complexity of deformities. Combined deformities and complex intra-articular malunions of the forearm and wrist benefit the most from the use of 3D techniques. New technical developments, including lower-dose scanning technology, software improvement, artificial intelligence, and in-hospital printing, may lower the associated costs and make its application more accessible.

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